May Queen crown passes from mum to daughter

THIRTY years ago, Elinor Everest proudly paraded through Eynsham as her primary school’s May Queen.

In just over two weeks time, her daughter Imogen, 11, will continue the family tradition.

Each year, one lucky girl in her final year at Eynsham Primary School is drawn out of a hat to fill the role, which includes walking through the village with attendants in tow before taking part in May dancing in the school hall.

Mrs Everest, 41, a hairdresser who stills live in Eynsham with her partner David and Imogen, said: “It was quite an exciting surprise. I was shocked that she got the role as well because you don’t expect it to happen twice.

Elinor Everest pictured 30 years ago as Eynsham Primary School May Queen

“You’re always very proud to see your children do anything and it’s a good thing for her to do. When I did it it was over two days and the reigning queen would present the crown but now it’s just one day and the youngest and oldest boys in the school hand over the crown. It’s one of my most favourite memories because we had really good fun. May Day was always a nice day.

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To complete the family feel, Mrs Everest’s sister Elsa Curtis, 43, from Hardwick, was also a May Queen attendant three years previously, and her niece Elisha will take on the same role alongside Imogen this year.

Elsa Curtis as May Queen attendant

Imogen said: “I’m really excited because I get to wear a dress and a crown. Everyone will join in and dance.

“I didn’t know it was exactly 30 years ago but when I got home my mum told me. I will be really happy to take over from her and I’m really pleased my cousin will be there too.

“I will be a little bit nervous but it will be really cool to be on stage.”

Mrs Curtis said said: “It’s really exciting for all the family because it’s quite a big thing in Eynsham. It’s such a fluke.”